Excursion Sakkara & pyramids tour at Alexandria
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Explore the most important treasures of ancient Egypt during this picturesque full-day journey to the oldest Pyramid of Egypt located in Sakkara and the Great Pyramids of Giza.
Depart the pier via coach for the approximate 2.5 to 3-hour drive to Cairo via the desert road where your guide will provide interesting facts about the sites you will be visiting.
Sakkara Pyramids
Dating from 2700 BC, the Step Pyramid is the oldest stone structure in the world, and was designed by Imhotep for King Djoser. In addition to Djoser's Step Pyramid, there are another 16 pyramids on the site in various states of preservation or decay. Sakkara is also home to an impressive number of mastaba tombs. Because the necropolis was lost beneath the sands for much of the past two millennia, even the sizable mortuary complex surrounding Djoser's pyramid was not unearthed until 1924. As a result, many of the mastaba tombs have been superbly-preserved, with both their structures and lavish internal decorations intact.
After your visit, depart for lunch (beer and wine included) in one of the local deluxe hotels before the short drive to your next destination.
The Great Pyramids
Considered the most famous of Egypt's attractions and the only monuments left of the ancient wonders, the three main Pyramids at Giza were built as tombs by Cheops, his son Chephren, and Chephren's son Mykiernus to preserve each of the pharaohs' mummified body for eternity. For centuries, these unique structures have intrigued the world while surviving the rise and fall of great dynasties.
The Western Plateau
A short drive takes you to the top of the plateau for a panoramic view across the desert and the pyramids. A string of camels usually provide great photo opportunities. (There is a fee to be paid to the owner.)
The Sphinx
Southeast of the great pyramid stands the sphinx carved out of solid rock around 2650 BC. Steeped in legend and superstition, the sphinx was a monument either to the sun god Ra or to Pharaoh Chephren. It has the head of a man and the body of a lion. The monument faces east, probably to greet the rising sun and the return of life each day.
At the conclusion of your visit, commence the return journey to Alexandria where you will enjoy some free time to shop before arriving at the ship.
Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking (over one mile or 1.6 kilometres) with steps to climb. The only restroom available in the area is located at the Sphinx area. Walking at the pyramids area is uneven, sandy and involves a cobbled surface and is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair however access to the Pyramids is not possible and guests may stay on board the coach. Guests must be able to get in/out of the vehicle on their own or with the assistance of their travelling companion. For liability reasons, our guides are not able to assist guests board the coach. Casual, lightweight clothing is recommended; wear flat, comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. The tour sequence may vary. At various tourist sites, you may encounter groups of vendors and youngsters, who are very persistent in trying to sell you their wares. USD, EURO, GBP cash and credit cards are accepted at most souvenir shops.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Sakkara Pyramids, Great Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Western Plateau